Just when I thought I was out... Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers are pulling me back in! If Marvel is to be believed, Doom's conquest will unfold as an era, akin to Dark Reign, rather than a fleeting event like last year's Blood Hunt. This means that throughout most of 2025, the Marvel universe will be under the reign of Doom, who will assume the roles of World Emperor, Sorcerer Supreme, and leader of the Superior Avengers.
As you might expect, the Superior Avengers will feature villains, but with a twist: familiar names will be donned by new characters:
- Abomination: Kristoff, Doom's adopted son and Reed Richards' half-brother.
- Dr. Octopus: A new woman, not Caroline Trainer (Lady Octopus).
- Ghost: A nameless woman from Ant-Man.
- Killmonger: A fresh take on the character.
- Malekith: With Black Elves remaining on Earth.
- Onslaught: A formidable addition to the team.
The Superior Avengers series will span six issues, penned by Steve Fox (known for X-Men '92: House of XCII, Dark X-Men, Dead X-Men, and Spider-Woman) and illustrated by Luca Maresca (X-Men: Forever, Children of the Vault). The series is set to launch in April.
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This concept isn't entirely new. For instance, during the Dark Avengers storyline in 2009, Norman Osborn replaced the Avengers with villains under aliases like Iron Patriot, Scorpion (posing as Spider-Man), Moonstone (as Ms. Marvel), Swordsman (as Hawkeye), Daken (as Wolverine), Sentry, Marvel Boy, and Ares. Similarly, in the Secret Empire event, Hydra formed their version of the Avengers, including the unworthy Thor, Vision (controlled by Arnim Zola), Scarlet Witch (under Chthon's control), Deadpool, Superior Octopus, Taskmaster, and Black Ant.
But how did Dr. Doom manage to ascend to such heights? Let's explore the stepping stones that led to "One World Under Doom."
Emperor Doom
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While the 1987 graphic novel "Emperor Doom" by David Michelini and Bob Hall may come to mind, it's not essential reading for understanding Doom's global rule. However, Doom's theft of the Silver Surfer's cosmic power in Fantastic Four #57 marks an early instance of his global ambitions. "Emperor Doom" captures the essence of a world ruled by Doom with its straightforward and powerful premise.
President Doom 2099
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In the "Doom 2099" series by Warren Ellis and Pat Broderick, Doom nearly conquers America. This future version of Doom delivers iconic lines like "America is the greatest threat to the planet" and "I'll save the world by protecting America." This series is a highlight of Marvel 2099 and exemplifies Doom's grandest exploits.
Secret Wars
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When discussing Doom's greatest conquests, one cannot overlook his role in Jonathan Hickman's "The Avengers" and the 2015 "Secret Wars" event. As the God-Emperor, Doom's actions—such as marrying Sue Storm, transforming Johnny Storm into Sunshine, and appointing Ben Grimm as the Wall—were driven by his quest for power and immortality, all in the name of good governance. This storyline is a favorite for illustrating what Doom would do with ultimate power.
Blood Hunt
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The most crucial continuity leading to "One World Under Doom" is the 2024 Vampire Invasion event from Jed McKay and Pepe Larraz. As vampirism spreads, fueled by the Darkhold, Doctor Strange turns to Dr. Doom for help. Doom insists on becoming Sorcerer Supreme to wield the necessary magic, a role he retains even after the crisis, as Dr. Strange agrees the world isn't fully saved.
As we await further developments from Robert Downey Jr. and the Russo brothers in February, let's delve into a world ruled by none other than Doom himself.
